What Makes an American an “American?”

Consequential times are upon us. Our culture is under assault from without and from within. Given the global anti-American environment we find ourselves in, perhaps it is time to redefine ourselves. Not in others’ terms, but on our own. The vital question we should all be asking ourselves is, “What makes an American an American?”

Is it being a person who shamelessly accepts entitlement bribes from politicians who are only trying to buy themselves into office?

Is it being a person who expects cradle-to-grave security in exchange for self-determination and financial freedom?

Is it being a person who is willing to be less than his or her full potential?

I sure as hell hope not. Americans are made of sterner stuff.

Yes, Life is hard. And it should be. The human condition is defined by challenges met, endured, and overcome. Failure is our greatest teacher. It isn’t something we should deny ourselves, or our children. And, while we may occasionally experience despair because of continual failure; there is, burning within us, a tenacious spirit.

It is a spirit whose flame should be stoked so that it rages within our national bosom. With this spirit ablaze, we will continue to face potential failures, and to accept them as integral parts of life. Life isn’t made easier by sugarcoating words; not when it is the unvarnished Truth that is needed. Nor is Hopelessness salved by accepting that which we have not earned. Take away competition, and you take away what it means to be an American.

Sadly, the term “rugged individualism” is quickly being supplanted in our national lexicon by “institutionalized victimhood.” This must not continue. Anyone willing to trade their freedom for false security is not thinking like an “American.”

Americans are self-reliant, not dependent. Americans are industrious, not lazy. Americans are determined, not weak. Any other definition is unacceptable. Especially when it is foisted upon us by fellow countrymen.